Tooth Whitening
Tooth whitening is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.
Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth. The most popular method is using a home tooth whitening system that will whiten teeth in a couple weeks. There is also in office whitening system for bleaching teeth in a couple hours. Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.
Tooth whitening is not permanent. A touch-up will be needed and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.
Reasons for tooth whitening:
- Fluorosis
- Stained teeth due to medications.
- Yellow, brown stained teeth due to habits.
What does tooth whitening involve?
One option for at home bleaching is Sheer Whitening strips which can be purchased at our office. They are worn for once a day for 1-2 hours. Depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening patient can decide how many days to do process.
Another option for at home bleaching is Custom Bleaching trays. This type of tooth whitening usually requires two visits. At the first appointment, impressions will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom trays. At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary. The trays are worn with special whitening solution once a day for 30 minutes to overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.
In Office bleaching gives you the quickest result for bleaching. You would be seen for about 2 hours for this procedure. The Certified Dental Assistant will do this procedure. The teeth will be isolated and Opalescence Boost will be applied to the teeth for 3 to 4 – 20 minute sessions. Patient will also get home touch up kit to maintain the desired level of whiteness.
It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching. Using Sensitivity toothpaste before and during tooth whitening process will help with the sensitivity.